Disney 'blocks' Moore documentary on 911

[Truth Seeker]

We know that Michael Moore is a well known critic of the Bush administration but does this move not illustrate the influence big business has in western politics.

 

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/film/3685633.stm

 

Controversial director Michael Moore has said film studio Disney is refusing to release his new documentary, which heavily criticises President Bush.

Fahrenheit 911 was to be distributed by Miramax, a division of Disney.

 

But Disney has "officially decided to prohibit" Miramax from distributing the film, the director said on his website.

 

Moore, who won an Oscar for Bowling for Columbine in 2003, questioned whether in a "free and open society" Disney should be making such a decision.

 

Fahrenheit 911 links Mr Bush with powerful families in Saudi Arabia, including that of Osama Bin Laden, and attacks his actions before and after 11 September.

 

Some people may be afraid of this movie because of what it will show

 

Michael Moore

Miramax, run by Hollywood moguls Harvey and Bob Weinstein, agreed to distribute the documentary but Disney signalled it was not happy with the deal.

 

Disney bought Miramax 10 years ago but retained the rights to block films it deemed against its interests, such as adult-rated films.

 

But the New York Times said Miramax did not agree this was a situation where that clause should be invoked.

 

"For nearly a year, this struggle has been a lesson in just how difficult it is in this country to create a piece of art that might upset those in charge," Moore said on his official site.

 

Michael Eisner is chief executive of Disney

"Some people may be afraid of this movie because of what it will show.

 

"But there's nothing they can do about it now because it's done, it's awesome, and if I have anything to say about it, you'll see it this summer - because, after all, it is a free country."

 

Miramax spokesman Matthew Hilzik told the New York Times: "We are discussing the issues with Disney. We're looking at our options and look forward to resolving this amicably."

 

But Zenia Mucha, a Disney spokesman, said: "We advised both [Moore's] agent and Miramax in May of 2003 that the film would not be distributed. That decision stands."

 

Moore's agent, Ari Emanuel, accused Disney and its chief executive Michael Eisner of fearing a loss of tax breaks if it backed the release in the US.

 

Moore will give Fahrenheit 911 its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, but no date has been set for a US release.

[Libaax-Sankataabte]

"I will not rest

till America sees

this movie." -- Micheal Moore

[General Duke]

Its great promotion for the film before its opening in Canes next week I hope it stings Bush and his hypocracy. Well done to Moore

[Medley of extemporanea]

...it's strange... it seems a little ****** for them to block it like that... now the movie has more publicity then it would have had if they just secretly released it.

 

for example i didn't know about it 'tell i hear it was blocked. now i do, and as a result i will most likely see it, no matter who it's released by. Which is great for Mr. Moore.

 

What if it's a trick by Disney to create hype and controversy around the movie to boost sells?

 

...it has a cool name Fahrenheit 911

[Jaabir]

Hollywood has been a kindergarten for the new left for decades now. Why be surprised? It's the ultimate propaganda machine, as it is willingly financed by it's victims. Besides, Disney gets millions of dollars in tax credits thanks to President Bush. So I guess they cant bite the hand that is feeding them..

For he record though.. I watch Bowling for Columbine documentary. And man was Micheal moore telling the truth or what.. its currently showing on Showtime channel.